Clay Watch Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Clay Watch Special Needs Registry?
The registry is intended to compile and maintain a list of individuals who have “special needs” due to mental or neurological disabilities, and who reside within Clay County. Residents are invited to proactively provide information about any loved one with special needs, regardless of age, who may require special assistance in an emergency situation or interaction with Clay County Sheriff’s Deputies. While identifying information is required, all additional form questions are voluntary and not required. The information you choose to disclose is voluntary. The Special Needs Registry program is completely voluntary. The database also encompasses our former Elder Watch program which includes information for elderly, home-bound persons within the county that we maintain regular contact with to check on their well-being.Who is eligible?
The registry is developed with the intent to serve all members (adult or juvenile) of our community who have a “special need” and volunteer to register with the Clay County Sheriff’s Office.
As soon as I register, will the information be immediately available to responding police officers?
No. The content from the registration form must be entered into our internal Clay County Sheriff’s Office database, and then forwarded to Communications. The process may take up to two (2) weeks to finalize.
Who has access to my family member’s profile?
Clay County Sheriff’s personnel who require this information in the performance of their official duties will have access to the information. This information may be shared with other police agencies during an emergency situation, or if the registered person is missing within another jurisdiction. There are strict regulations with respect to accessing and disseminating this information.
Can I update my profile if there are changes? How do I do that?
Information can be updated anytime it might bring a significant impact on our policing response. Some examples would include a change in address, or change in emergency contact information. Changes can be made by contacting the Clay County Sheriff’s Office Community Affairs unit at communityaffairs@claysheriff.com, or by submitting a new registration form.
How will this registry help if my family member is missing?
If the registered individual is reported missing by the parent/guardian, our responding deputies have easy access to their information through Clay Watch. Knowing an individual’s special needs (including triggers, stimulants, and de-escalation techniques) greatly assists our deputies in locating your loved one, and safely handling an encounter. If the individual is not reported missing, but otherwise is contacted by our deputies, a computer query of our Special Needs Registry may allow us to quickly identify and reunite you with your loved one.
